Shih Tzu vs Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Size Category
Small
Ideal For
Families, Multi-pet Homes
Maintenance Level
Moderate
Size Category
Small
Ideal For
Families, Multi-pet Homes
Maintenance Level
Moderate
Decision Helper
Quick Decision Guide
Shih Tzu might be better if you:
- Want a dog great with children
- Have other pets at home
- Want an easily trainable dog
- Want a smaller dog that's easy to carry
- Want a breed known for longevity
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel might be better if you:
- Want a dog great with children
- Have other pets at home
- Want an easily trainable dog
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
- Often have visitors or socialize frequently
- Want a smaller dog that's easy to carry
Find Your Match
Quick Match Quiz
Question 1 of 7
What best describes your lifestyle?
Breed Overview
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy dog known for its long, flowing coat and distinctive pushed-in face. They typically weigh between 9 to 16 pounds and stand about 9 to 10.5 inches tall at the shoulder. Their large, dark eyes and short muzzle give them a sweet, expressive appearance. Shih Tzus have a friendly and outgoing personality, often forming strong bonds with their families. They are generally affectionate, playful, and lively, making them excellent companions for both individuals and families. Despite their small size, they are known for their confident demeanor and can exhibit a bit of stubbornness during training. Regular grooming is essential due to their long coat, which can mat easily if not maintained properly. They thrive on human companionship and are known to be relatively good with children and other pets.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small, elegant toy breed known for its affectionate nature and expressive eyes. They typically weigh between 13 to 18 pounds and stand about 12 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder. Their silky, medium-length coat comes in a variety of color combinations, including Blenheim, tricolor, ruby, and black and tan. This breed is known for its friendly and gentle disposition, making them excellent companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. Cavaliers are highly social dogs that thrive on human interaction and are known for their playful and affectionate demeanor. They are often described as adaptable, eager to please, and intelligent, making them relatively easy to train. However, they can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Key Statistics
Life Expectancy
Height (Male)
Weight (Male)
Breed Characteristics
Good with Children
Excellent with children
Excellent with children
Good with Other Dogs
Very social with other dogs
Very social with other dogs
Shedding
Light shedding level
Light shedding level
Grooming Needs
High grooming needs
Low grooming needs
Trainability
Highly trainable
Highly trainable
Energy Level
Moderately energetic breed
Moderately energetic breed
Barking Tendency
Moderate barking tendency
Moderate barking tendency
Care Requirements
Care Requirements
Shih Tzu
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Brush the coat daily to prevent matting and tangles.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet appropriate for their size and age.
Health Care
Check and clean the ears weekly to avoid infections.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Exercise Needs
Feed a balanced diet appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.
Grooming
Brush their coat daily to prevent matting and reduce shedding.
Feeding
Feed a balanced diet appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.
Health Care
Check and clean their ears regularly to prevent infections.
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Exercise Needs
Feed a balanced diet appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.
Grooming
Brush the coat daily to prevent matting and tangles.
Grooming
Brush their coat daily to prevent matting and reduce shedding.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet appropriate for their size and age.
Feeding
Feed a balanced diet appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.
Health Care
Check and clean the ears weekly to avoid infections.
Health Care
Check and clean their ears regularly to prevent infections.
Additional Care Notes
Shih Tzu
- •Ensure fresh water is available at all times.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- •Schedule regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations.
Training & Exercise
Training & Exercise Guide
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement methods, including treats and praise, to encourage good behavior. Consistency and short training sessions are key, as Shih Tzus can lose focus quickly. Socialization is also important, introducing them to various environments, people, and other dogs from an early age.
Training Challenges
- •stubbornness during training sessions
- •difficulty with housebreaking
- •tendency to bark excessively
- •distraction by other pets or people
- •separation anxiety leading to destructive behaviors
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Basic training should start early and focus on commands such as sit, stay, come, and leash walking. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, are highly effective. Socialization with other dogs and people is also crucial to help them develop into well-rounded pets.
Training Challenges
- •Separation anxiety due to their strong attachment to owners
- •Distractibility in environments with many stimuli
- •Stubbornness when not motivated by treats or praise
- •Difficulty with house training if not consistent
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement methods, including treats and praise, to encourage good behavior. Consistency and short training sessions are key, as Shih Tzus can lose focus quickly. Socialization is also important, introducing them to various environments, people, and other dogs from an early age.
Training Challenges
- •stubbornness during training sessions
- •difficulty with housebreaking
- •tendency to bark excessively
- •distraction by other pets or people
- •separation anxiety leading to destructive behaviors
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Basic training should start early and focus on commands such as sit, stay, come, and leash walking. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, are highly effective. Socialization with other dogs and people is also crucial to help them develop into well-rounded pets.
Training Challenges
- •Separation anxiety due to their strong attachment to owners
- •Distractibility in environments with many stimuli
- •Stubbornness when not motivated by treats or praise
- •Difficulty with house training if not consistent
Training Resources
Shih Tzu Training Guide
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Training Guide
Find Breeders
Find Shih Tzu Breeders
Find Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breeders
Local Search Tips
When looking for a reputable breeder in your area, consider these approaches:
- 1.
Contact local veterinarians for breeder recommendations - They often know reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and proper care.
- 2.
Join breed-specific clubs in your area - These communities can provide valuable connections and insights about responsible breeders.
- 3.
Attend local dog shows to meet breeders - This gives you the opportunity to see their dogs and discuss breeding practices in person.